Stitch it out!

Robert Earl is coming!

2011-05-11T07:43:00.009-04:00

Robert Earl finally sold the house down south and is coming for his sweet Alberta!

She and Duke the pit bull are so excitedly planning for his arrival. I guess Alberta will be needing a new dress!!

Keep stitchin'

Heart on my sleeves shawl/wrap

2011-04-21T10:17:00.014-04:00

After finishing the NatCroMo 2011 challenge I wanted to continue with the freeform. There's a neverending borage of ideas flying through my head. I literally see everything in fiber art these days. I started making making little bullion spirals, tri-color spirals, paisleys and all sorts of things just for practice for that 'Big Project' living in my head. At first I thought I was making another wall hanging, something a little more balanced and thoughtout than the last one, when I was struck by this one little bullion. Just a simple red bullion, because I had some leftover red. I decided to add some orange top stitching, just practicing what I've read in Prudence's book. Well, since I wasn't feeling the orange top stitching I decieded to try some reverse single crab crochet (crab stitch) right over the orange top stitching and WOW!!! I loved what I had in my hand! No longer was it just a scrumble, it became an abstract heart.

Once I saw this lovely heart I knew what I wanted more hearts and this would become the theme for my piece. I needed to figure out how to put them together so I started adding the creamy open lace. That's when it hit be that should make a wrap instead of a wall hanging! I wanted my hearts to be different, especially since I was having trouble replicating this particular bullion heart. I started making paisleys and didn't care for it because one showed the wrong side of the work so I had to figure out how to reverse the pattern, I'm quite proud of myself.

I also got a leaf pattern from DeLeewit's Corner on raverly that I made hearts out of.

So now I have a nice freeform wrap with hearts all over my sleeves plus a few other spirals and goodies thrown in here and there. I love the crab stitch running through the wrap holding the individual pieces together adding that extra touch to the wrap.

Keep stitchin'

NatCroMo 2011 has come to an end

2011-04-02T11:02:00.010-04:00

Well, I was supposed to update every now and then but this project kept me busy and I didn't so it so, now that it's complete I can post my results.

The name I choose for this piece is 'Silence Amidst the Chaos' because of the beauty of the rose, and other flowers. There's also the beauty of sounds produced by a piece played softly on the piano. These things thrown in with squids, chains, wheels, volancos, smoke stacks and so much more. Being able to find peace in all that is wonderful so there it is. This piece will go up on my wall and provide stress relief for me as I stare into it and find all kinds of treasure like when you make things out of clouds. I can't wait to start another one and maybe make something that can be worn or simply a tote bag. This piece was about learning the art of freeform and letting go. What is the most important thing I learnt about ff? With ff you simply let go, don't stress. There's still so much to learn about freeform, irish crochet and russian crochet. My summer will be filled with learning these new things.

Keep stitchin'

NatCroMo 2011

2011-03-05T12:08:00.006-05:00

National Crochet Month 2011 = NatCroMo 2011

It's a group I joined on raverly. I joined this group to learn about freeform from some of the masters like the wonderful Prudence Mapstone, Sylvia Cosh & James Walters who introduced scrumbling. There are tons of amazing creations like the work of Antonina, Margaret Hubert, Myra Wood and so many I can't even name. Raverly is the place to be to see the collective works of these guys and the amateurs like me trying to learn a little sumn, sumn from them.

The list above is just few friends I've made on raverly that are in the NatCroMo 2011 group. It's a blast watching my piece transform day after day. It goes from looking like a hot mess to looking like possible art from one day to the next. So at the end of week one I have something that kinda looks like a putt putt car.

I'm not sure which direction the car is going yet but considering that could change tomorrow it really doesn't matter yet. Later I'll be adding all kinds of new stuff like bullions, spirals, beads, knots, twist and kinds of fun stuff I know nothing about!

It's unbelieveable that like crazy looking piece I'm working on will teach me skills that the designers had to learn in order to make the beautiful dresses, purses, curtain and such that I drool over.

So y'all come back ya here! So you can see how my piece transforms through the month.

Keep stitchin'

Dublin Bay redo

2011-02-19T15:24:00.006-05:00

My Dublin Bay sock weren't going so well so I decided to start over. This time things went much better and I'm very pleased with the results. Considering it's still cold out I look forward to wearing them very soon. Maybe Monday since we're supposed to get more snow.

Keep stitchin'

Happy Valentines Day for who?

2011-02-13T11:43:00.008-05:00

So this is a weekend for lovers...blahhhhhhh!
Since I love me just as much as someone else will...one day...soon I hope. I decided to make a nice breakfast for myself . Afterall, I know what I like:

Anything in a wine or champagne glass
Flowers, even artificial will do
Soft music
Nice place setting
Scented candle

I do these things for myself whenever the mood strikes just because I'm special. Well this morning was a bit too much for me with it being the weekend for love and all. I decided to make some simple homemade biscuits. You know the kind, 5 simple ingredients that most usually have on hand anyway; with the exception of the shortening. They came out nice and golden and with a dab of All Natural peanut butter they'll be great with eggs and coffee.

Why was this NOT a very good idea? Well I did mention the 'teary eyes'. Kinda stressful this morning watching EVERYTHING on every station revolving around lovers. I used Baking Soda instead of Baking Powdered in my biscuits. Big, big, big mistake!!! Of course I ate nearly an entire biscuit because I thought my taste buds were off since I'd just brushed my teeth. Once I walked back into the kitchen I realized what I'd done.
One of my friend mentioned not working on a good project while you're stressed because it makes a difference in gauge. Well, I think the same thing goes for cooking...just stick to knitting.
So with that said I did make another set stitch markers last night! I needed some for my crochet projects and for keeping track of needles when working with DPN's. These came out pretty good it I say so myself!

Keep stitchin'

Dublin Bay Sock

2011-02-11T16:10:00.010-05:00

After completing my first pair of 'grown up' socks that actually fit the way they're supposed to fit, I gave myself a day to rest my fingers and then dove right into the next pair. I was hoping to find a simple cable pattern but instead I found a pattern that is absolutely lovely! It has a beautiful open lace pattern running down the left and right sides of the socks. The socks, found on raverly, are called Dublin Bay by Ryan Morrissey. For those not on rav, again WHY NOT, a pdf link can be found here as well. You have to scroll down the page, looking on the left sidebar for dublin bay socks under free patterns.

I finished all but grafting the toe on the first sock. I am now ready to start the second sock. I know I made 10 million mistakes in the sock but the open work on the sides is very forgiving! I shoved a white cup down inside of the sock to get a good shot of the lace pattern. It's a simple four row repeat, actually it's only two rows since both the even rows are knit. Not only did I make tons of mistakes but I made the mistake of not keeping track of how many repeats I did for the sake of the second sock. So once I've completed the second, or rather the first sock, I'll have to rip the 'other' sock and do it over again. At least I'll have good info on how far to go.

I also discovered through all my errors that I have a great amount of yarn leftover so I can afford to make the sock longer as well. The disadvantage of top down socks is not knowing if you'll have enough yarn to finish the socks. So messing up the first sock is looking to be not so bad after all.
Now I have to keep some better pics as well. The color of the yarn is more of a deep red or burgandy rather than purple as they are showing today.

Keep stitchin'

I guess the paint finally dried

2011-02-08T18:09:00.020-05:00

I finished my socks on Sunday and actually wore them to work with blue pants on Monday, everybody loved them. They fit very comfortably in my shoes and there was absolutely no binding or pinching of the calves. When I took them off after work there was ring around my calf or that itching you get after having tight knee highs around your legs all day.

The shoe below is not the shoes I wore to work, I just wanted a dressy shoe to wear for my close up, LOL. Imagine, if the socks are this comfy with a MaryJane shoe it has to be very comfortable with a loafer-type shoe.

The yarn I used to make these sock is from yarn I already had in stock from Colours the Yarn Gallery in Randallstown, MD. I haven't been there in quite some time but I presume they are still in business, guess that means it's time for a visit.

Even though the beginning was a bit intimidating because I've never worked with yarn of this weight nor double pointed needles I am so glad I was able to push on and triumph with these socks. Now the beautiful socks on my computer's background to give me inspiration/motivation are my own and I've already started a second pair!

Keep stitchin'

Like watching paint dry

2011-02-05T09:22:00.009-05:00

This is how I felt when I started knitting these socks with sock/fingering weight yarn. The pattern I'm using list patience as one of the needed materials for making the socks. Honestly it seemed like it was taking sooooo long just to see an inch of cuff once I finished my 10 rows of ribbing. Several times I put the sock down and knew I'd never get those socks knitted. Then, all of a sudden, I got into my happy zone and had about 3" of cuff done! After that it turned into a good book that I didn't want to put down. Suddenly those stitches didn't seem so freaking small after all.

I'm using the Silver Sock Class tutorial provided by Kristin Bellehumeur to make my socks on double pointed needles. It's so very easy and very clear following Kristin's instructions. She provides three different methods for making socks and I want to try them all! Also, her instructions provide the cast on adjustments based on yarn weight so there's no need for gauge checking!!!

So I've finished all but grafting the toe of the first sock but I was too excited to finish that part. Instead, I went on and started the second sock and didn't go through that nasty 'watching paint dry' period at all!

I only have one regret with theses socks, the length. I have big calves and ankles, better known as cankles grrrrrrr. I was concerned that the socks would not come all the way up to my knees so I stopped at 6.5" like most of my socks...big mistakes. The socks have tons of stretch in them and would have been a great pair of knee highs without strangling my legs. I chalk it up to a learning experience and look forward to making another pair. This pair will certainly be knee highs. I can't wait to finish this pair, hopefully this weekend so I can wear them soon. I now see how people get addicted to knitting socks.

Here's a tip that I came up with that served as inspiration for me to finishe this project and any other that I may be struggling with.

"When I'm working on a project from raverly, especially a slow knitted project, save a finished project to your pc's background to provide constant inspiration to continue. For some it may be easier to print a copy and hang but with trying to lower carbon imprints just save it as a background or screensaver."

Looking at all the pretty FO's on raverly lead me think it would be nice to have that motivation right in front of me as a reminder. I set a beautiful pair of socks on my pc's background at work and at home so I'm constantly looking at them. Eventually, I'll be able to replace them with my own socks!

Keep stitchin'

Lanesplitter done!

2011-01-28T19:58:00.012-05:00

I finished my skirt and it came out wonderfully!!! I can definitely see myself making another one of these in a better quality yarn such as the Noro that Tina used to make the skirt. This acrylic tend to fuzz up and look knida kinky but I think I'm really going to like that. I think it will give lots of character to the skirt. Hopefully I'll be able to get a few shots of me wearing the skirt added shortly.

I have some beautiful options for blouses to wear with this skirt! My colors choices are many.

****************************************
So as promised I have a couple of photos I attempted to take of me wearing the skirt. I used the self timer feature on the camera and tried to show my 'good side'.
Making this skirt was a very easy, it did not require a lot of concentration but you do have to remember the increases. Then once you've gotten used to that and moved on to the straight portion then you have to remember the decreases. I'm happy to say I didn't have to rip any rows because of forgetting the pattern or forgetting to switch yarns. This pattern definitely gets two thumbs up!!

Keep stitchin'

The Lanesplitter skirt

2011-01-22T11:35:00.006-05:00

I found this really, really lovely skirt pattern called Lanesplitter by Tina Whitmore. For those of you are not on ravelry, WHY, you can link to it here at Knitty.

The pattern goes to a 4X so it will work. At the time of this posting there are 552 finished skirts of all sizes and wonderful colors on her page on ravelry! Eventually my finished skirt will grace that page. I choose to use Lion Brand Homespun for my first attempt since Noro is a rather pricey yarn for my pocket. I choose Homespun because ecorianne used it gave some good comments:

"with the homespun it will be kind of a fuzzy-ish skirt, perhaps perfect for the winter, over dance leggings… using some stash. micah and i both ended up loving it in the homespun--it’s a kind of chunky, fuzzy, nubby thing and rather nice."

I started out with US 10 needles but had to go down to a US 9 because I tend to knit very loose. I have no idea if my gauge is correct...probably not. Despite the gauge I am loving the skirt and can't wait to wear it. You can easily adjust the length so I made mine approximately 26" instead of 22" as the pattern stated. I have to admit, I am a slow knitter but the cold is definitely pushing me to hurry and finish this skirt. I'm expecting it to be nice and snuggly and warm as Homespun is known for.

Keep stitchin'

I made my duct tape dressform

2011-01-01T22:35:00.012-05:00

I finally got around to making my dress form. It's not the prettiest thing, in fact, it's very amateurish due in part to a 20 year old and a 12 year old helper who really were not happy about having to touch my body. So anyway it's finally done and resting I think securely on a recycled lamp pole. Now when I make my sweaters and scarves I won't have to beg someone to model them for me. I must admit, looking at the dress form makes it clear that I need to lose weight. It also makes it obvious to me that I clearly see myself as much bigger than I actually am.

January 5, 2011 UPDATE!!!

I dressform started having a wardrobe malfunction so I had to do some repairs quickly. I wasn't able to put a hanger in the shoulders, no way to hold it up. The body started to separate from the neck so I did some figure 8's around the neck and underarm area this seemed to do the trick.

I also neglected to give credit to my online help in creating the dress form. I've had a couple people ask me how I came up with the idea and wouldn't want to give the impression that I had anything to do with that. Of course there's tons of instructions all over the internet with detail like ehow, about and all those guys but I tend to be more visual. So I found a couple of girls on youtube called vintagegarbage. They goof around a bit but they give good details.

Keep stitchin'

Thumbless Baby Mitts

2010-12-27T16:09:00.012-05:00

I guess I must be one of Santa's helpers because I'm still making gifts. I'm becoming addicted to hats of all things. They quick and easy enough to make on a whim. Since I was off today and certainly got bored, or rather suffered from withdrawal, I had to find something to make. So I came up with Thumbless Mitts for one of my nieces. She's just 6 months so thumbs really are not necessary yet. I combined info from toe up socks, hats and top down socks and mittens to come up with these little cuties. It's a really versitile that can use pretty much any stitch but I wanted fpdc to match the Reversible Strands Hat for Men pattern by Nancy Smith.

I think just about any yarn weight will work for these mitts as well but you may have to do a few more rows of increases. I haven't tried it yet but I think that it would be as simple as this:

inc every 4th st, inc every 5th st and so forth. Then reduce back down to for the wrist. I eyeballed this all thing so my niece hasn't even tried these on yet but it looks like they will fit. If they're too big, no problem.

Thumbless Baby Mitts
Materials:

I used a very small amount Caron Rainbow Tones (Country Rose) but any worsted weight yarn will do. Experiment with other yarn weights!

H crochet hook

Yarn needles for weaving in ends

Notes: Work first stich in same stitch where you joined when working sc rows.

Mitt
Chain 4
Rnd 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each across (3sc). Working on opposite side of chain, sc in next 3sc for a total of 6sc, join with a sl st and ch 1.
Rnd 2: work 2 fpdc in each sc. join with a sl st and ch 1 (12 dc)
Rnd 3: Work even, join with a sl st and ch 1
Rnd 4: *dc in the 1st st, 2dc in the next st. Rep from * around. join with a sl st and ch 1 (18 dc)
Rnd 5: Work even, join with a sl st and ch 1
Rnd 6: Work dc in the 1st dc, 2 dc in the next. Work 2 dc in every 3rd st around. Dc in the last st. join with a sl st and ch 1 (24dc)
Rnd 7-13: Work even (24dc)

Wrist
Rnd 14-15: Sc in each stitch.
Rnd 16: Dec 3 sts evenly spaced (21 dc)
Rnd 17: Hdc in each st (21 hdc)
Rnd 18-20: Work fphdc in each sts around (21 fphdc)
Finish off.

I'm not a designer so I can't guarantee that this pattern is perfect but I hope it is.

Keep stitchin'

24 gifts in 24 days!

2010-12-24T15:00:00.009-05:00

Well I haven't posted in some time but I think I'm about to make up for it today. I decided to make a gift a day up to December 24th which is my birthday. This came about as the result of someone asking me if a snowman was a gift to me. I told her it's just decoration for the holidays but it got me to thinking it would be a hoot to make a gift a day for my birthday. I know some folks who celebrate their birthday for an entire week leading up to their birthday or maybe just that weekend of their birthday. I decided to take it a step further and do the whole month just as a challenge for myself.
I actually set rules for this challenge:

All gifts are to be handmade (knit/crochet, sew)
Absolutely no yarn purchases, only use yarn from my stash can be used
Only supplies like beads, buckles, fabric for linings. buttons and others accessories can be purchased
Multiple gifts can be completed simutaneously in order to ensure a posting for everyday (I feel short a couple of days)
In the event of a missed posting two must be posted the next day to make up for it
Even fugly gifts counts (we has received those on occassion)
For the actual date of birth there most be a spectacular gift for my special day.

These are the rules I set for myself because I've never done this before. This was merely a challenge to myself to see if I could produce. I was late posting a couple of times because I was out late for appointments or family obligations. Most of the work could only be done in the evenings because I can't knit/crochet and work at the same time, though I'd love to.

My list of gifts:

What I learned from this is that I'm more than content crocheting and knitting as a hobby but I don't think I'd like being forced to meet deadlines, especially if it means something new everyday.

Keep stitchin'

Still in the green

2010-11-06T17:27:00.008-04:00

Ok so I'm been busy trying a little this and a little that before I make something else. I want new ideas for the new year. To while away some time I made a baby sleep sack for one of my co-workers. She it and especially the shades of green which match the nursery color scheme perfectly. I made the matching cap but forgot to take a shot of it so it's not here but it's made just like the sack. This is a very simple, quick project. The pattern is from Suettea Williams' blog, also found on ravelry.

With some of the leftover yarn I decided to give sock knitting a try. I can practically crochet socks in my sleep now but I've always wanted to know how to knit socks. I found a decent pattern on knitty.com like Anatomy of a sock which included a 'trainer sock tutorial' by Kate Atherley. Even though the instructions are pretty good I needed to see it to get a good understanding of it. So I went surfing for a decent video online. The video I found on youtube is Dorret's. Excellent video for someone who needs to see how to knit socks, for me anyway. Dorret has a cute British accent but I think it's easy enough to understand what she's saying. The camera is over her shoulder so seeing everything from the right angle is very good. One of the problems I was having was figuring out how to get a circle started to make the cuff. Believe it or not I've knitted a skirt but I was drawing a blank. So Dorret's vid proved very useful in helping to simple get that circle started. I did make a few mistakes with the sock put I think its mostly the size. The pattern is for a mini sock that can be used as an ornament or put on a key chain. I think I know enough to now make a pair of socks for me. Then I'll try some for someone else when I know I've gotten it down.

Keep stitchin'

Verdure

2010-09-26T11:12:00.015-04:00

My latest cardi, using the Sweet pattern is Verdure. I came up with the name because I wanted something that means green with having to use the word. It's an opportunity to add a new word to my vocabulary.

Verdure-

- The fresh-green color of growing things; greenness
- Green growing plants and trees; green vegetation
- Vigorous or flourishing condition
- The lush greenness of flourishing vegetation.
- Vigorous greenery.
- A fresh or flourishing condition

I made the sweater holding two strands of yarn together throughout. Of course the sweater itself was easy because I've made nearly ten projects using this pattern/formula. I love the huge handmade buttons and applique that I made to dress the sweater up a bit.

Think I want pockets on the next one!

Keep stitchin'

Just stitchin along

2010-07-27T17:54:00.003-04:00

So after taking some time off trying some new things, like having a life, I'm back on track with the ones who really understand me. That's right, all my needles and hooks, they never let me down. lol

So two sweater completed but I'm not sure about the fit. Tried to take care of that yesterday but alas, I was stood up! So let's hope the baby can get these before she gets too fat. Now I can get back to big girl stuff. Hey!!! not that kinda big girl! I've got my eyes on some shrugs, hats, jewelry, socks...and so on, and so on. Ok now I'm drooling, cuse me while I go get a towel.

Keep stitchin'

Purple Pleasures Necklace

2010-07-18T15:56:00.007-04:00

Of course there needed to be a necklace to go along with those earrings! I actually did two rounds for the necklace so it would be a bit bigger. I love the length, it falls teasingly right into place.

Now what I want is to perfect this a bit more and than buy better quality wire for really stunning pieces. For now, I have to learn to incorporate beads into the piece instead of just around the edges. None the less, I am very pleased with these pieces.

Keep stitchin'

Purple Pleasures crochet earrings

2010-07-11T09:54:00.005-04:00

I wanted some earrings to wear today for Happy Nappy Day so I crocheted a pair and added a purple dangle! It's a simple granny square made from 24 gauge silver wire. I used a 1lb dumbell to flatten it out and then shaped it a bit. The pattern idea came from ravelry of course. But if you already know how to crochet a granny square you're good to go.

These will look very nice with the purple outfit I'll be wearing to Happy Nappy Day. It's finally here!! Stay tuned for pics from the event!!

Keep stitchin'

Duke the petite pit bull

2010-07-10T14:10:00.007-04:00

Duke is a pit bull I found on ravelry and thought he'd make a great pet for Alberta. If your not a member of ravelry you should join but in the meantime, if you can't access ravelry go to Liz Lindo's website to find the free pattern for this cutie. The things she is creating are specular!! Like the, again free, pattern for a breathtaking top called the Lotus Blossom Cardigan She even shows how she pieced it together. How cool is this!!! She only makes this top in a med size so too bad for me but maybe I can still use her technique and come up with something. First I need to get help making a duct tape mannequin.

But anyway, Duke!!

He's a very happy little guy and he loves his owner, Alberta.

What's next? Robert Earl is coming to keep both Alberta and Duke in line...stay tuned.

Keep stitchin'

PC fading fast!!!

2010-07-05T16:19:00.003-04:00

My computer is dying! I can hardly do anything without getting a message that I'm out of memory. I don't know much of anything about hardware so this made no sense to me. Every time I looked at my C-drive it showed that it's less than half full. Now I'm starting to get the difference between storage space and random access space. So, what's the solution? http://www.tigerdirect.com/ This site has some decent, by decent I mean affordable, prices and product reviews. Most importantly I trust this site because the IT techs on my job order supplies for our office from them. You know if your job trust them they must be ok. My job has ordered everything from computers to keyboards to monitors to external drives from them so I know I've got a winner. I myself ordered an external drive from them and I have had no trouble what so ever with it, I also ordered a mouse for my laptop from them in the past.
So anyway, I just order a 1 gig memory card/slot/thingy from them which should definitely speed up my pc. I am not a gamer and I hadn't downloaded music in quite some time. I just like being able to watch a movie and maybe pay a bill at the same time, use my webcam and share photos at the same time...ordinary stuff.
So, it's supposed to take 3-5 business days so I expect to have it by the end of the week, next Monday at the latest. It's supposed to be extremely easy to install and get me running so we'll see.

July 10, 2010
PC update:
My 1 gig of memory arrived by mail on Thursday so we're talking a 3-day turn around. It came by regular postal service so I had to wait until Friday to pick it up for the post office. Installation seemed easy enough but my pc would not function properly. I called tigerdirect and the tech suggested take out the two orginal 128 mb's that were in the pc. Once I removed them and put the new 1G in it's place she is popping like popcorn baby! I can open three or four pages on the net at the same time. I have no trouble uploading my pics. I haven't tried a netflix movie yet but I don't anticipate any problems there either.
So two thumbs up to www.tigerdirect.com.

Keep stitchin'

Alberta

2010-06-27T08:52:00.011-04:00

I found this cute amigurumi doll pattern by Beth Ann Webber on raverly and thought this is too cute to pass up. There is a wonderfu pictorial on her flickr page that helps you design your doll, clothes for her and how to make her hair. The pattern is so easily altered to make little creatures too. Be sure to drop by her blog to see all the wonderful things she makes, including the fabric dolls too.

I took my doll to work to show her off and everybody loves her! They can't wait to see the clothes I make for her.
I have to talk about how I made mine up because I didn't have the supplies called for. I didn't have pipe cleaners so I used floral wire, 22 gauge I think, in the arms and legs with a little poly fill. I didn't have a wooden spool to put in the neck so I had to get creative. I cut a drinking straw into 1/2" pieces and taped four of the pieces together. I used lots of tape and stuffed in the neck but felt it wasn't going to stay in place...hmmmmm what to do? I wrapped a couple of rubber bands around the taped straws to add some traction! This was the perfect way to give the yarn something to grab on to and provide stability in the neck.
Getting the yarn for her lips was quite crafty, if I say so myself. I knew I didn’t want a bright red, nor did I want pink, I wanted a more ‘ethnic' looking shade. Since I don’t wear any make-up, ever…hmmmmmm what to do? <> I still have yarn left over from my Autumn Winds sweater, it has warmer shades of brown and red that I knew would work well. So I stretched out a piece of the yarn and dissected it to get the lovely warm reddish-brown color for her lips.
Now, when her clothes are complete and she has hair accessories, she will be a happy girl.

I'm behind on my blogging but I saved these notes to add everything once she was done. So, as you can see, she has a dress and bloomers now. I didn't follow the pattern to a tee, I just used whatever I already had in the house. Since I didn't have a rubber to fit her waist to make the bloomers I simply did a few chain links and made a belt to tie them on her. I would still like to make her some shoes and those hair accessories...maybe later when I finish some other started projects.

I finally came up with the name, I wanted something rather 'country' so I choice Alberta. Sorry all you Alberta's that are screaming, "I'm not country!". My doll, my name, my reason for choosing it.

Keep stitchin'

Drops 107-1

2010-05-31T12:16:00.014-04:00

I love this jacket! As soon as I saw this I knew I wanted to make it...or at least attempt it. The yarn, if I want to use what the pattern called for, is rather pricey so I ordered yarn from Smiley's instead. I expected this pattern to be very complicated and over my head but because of youtube, garn studio's own tutorials and so many other sites all over the net, I was able to see how to work the domino diamonds. This pattern is rather simple to follow and works up quite easy.

The only problem I have, because I didn't use the muskat that was used to create this jacket I don't have as much color and actually loose some of the beautiful detail. If you look this jacket up on ravelry you will be amazed at some of the color choices that were used to make this jacket. The lovely varigated yarns add so much more depth to this pattern but mine is lost.

The diamond pattern is very evident but the layers of color is missing. None the less, this is the best garment that I've ever knitted and it shows that I do have some skill for knitting. I have a long way to go before I'd say I'm good at it but this is a good start. Because I tend to be so critical of myself the mistakes I know I made nag at me at night when I should be sleeping! It's very hard not to rip & repeat everytime I make the smallest opps but I'm trying.

I'm glad to be nearly done with this jacket too. I have to finish the right side and make the sleeves to finish up. I didn't make my end of month deadline but, so what, I'll eventually be done and on to my next project.

Keep stitchin'

Take the shirt right off their back

2010-05-22T08:31:00.016-04:00

Ok, not literally but he did give me his shirt. Yesterday was 'Bike to Work' here in Maryland.

No I did not ride a bike to work, plz. So since I'm working on building my tarn collection I'm always looking at people's shirts to see if they are cotton. Just something I do, just like I'm always looking to see if a sweater is knit or crochet and whether I could reproduce it not. Anywho, this man comes to my job to register for services and he has this green t-shirt hanging over his shoulder. I can some orange, some white and even some black that turned out to be blue in it. So I'm talking with a co-worker excitedly about the red tarn ball that I've already made and how I need cotton tees with lots of color in them and I point to the man's shirt and say, "Something like that shirt right there". He hands the shirt to me!!! I couldn't believe he was serious but he didn't ask for it back. That's when I saw it was one of the bike to work t-shirt from the rally that was held Friday morning.

So now I know how to get more cotton shirts, just walk right up to someone, look them straight in the eye; don't be afraid to hit them with the puppy face; and simply ask for the shirt off their back.

Once my tarn was complete it became evident that the colors aren't showing which is a little disappointing. I am reading up on dyeing with RIT so I can try my hand at dyeing fabric. There are some cool sites, including ehow with tons of info about dyeing fabric. Just watching the videos was exciting to me. So stay tuned for some adventures in tie dyeing!!

Keep stitchin'

Tarn!!

2010-05-18T05:13:00.009-04:00

I made tarn! What is it? It's simple cutting an old t-shirts into a continuous strip to make a ball of yarn. That said ball of yarn is knitted or crocheted into something wonderful like a bag, hat, rug or maybe a pillow, to name a few. The only rules, which really aren't rules, is that you should use old t-shirts not brand new ones. Thus the recycle part comes into play. There are lots of tutorials on the web to help you learn how to make your tarn. After cutting up your first tee you will be an expert, at least at cutting.

Craft Passion is a very nice, very clear picture tutorial.
Eloominator is another tut that shows you using that cutting wheel thingy. lol I have one too but don't ask me what it's called.
Polka Dot Pineapple, yet another wonderful tut with excellent pics and instructions. PDP is really into recycle/upcycling so she has all sorts of great ideas for using up old jeans to make coasters, wire and scraps of fabric to make flowers and even painting window screen pink to make poinsettias!!

To make sure I didn't ruin a t-shirt I practiced with a piece of paper first. Just get a piece of paper and tape the ends together to form a tube, you've got the perfect practice piece. This will help you get used to where to make that first diagonal cut. If your diagonal cuts are off you will end up with a bunch of single loops instead of one continuous piece. Once I had the paper yarn down I was ready to make my own t-shirt yarn!

Since I've added links to such wonderful sites with instructions I'm not going to bore you with a tutorial myself. Instead I'll show what it looked like after cutting my strips leaving the one inch at the top, stretching after the diagonal cuts into one continuous strip and finally, my tarn ball! Oh, and check out my sewing scissors with the animal print hand, they make me feel like a real seamstress...not.
So what now, what to make, what to make with my first tarn. I have already started begging for more tees from the guys who for some reason don't want to part with them, hmmm. If you follow on ravelry take a look at some of exciting rugs, hats and bowls there on the From Trash to Treasures and Got T-Shirt Yarn groups. Oh, I almost forgot Petite Purls, great website with patterns for the cutest tutu, blanket and an awesome red hat. You will find it hard to believe these things are made from cut t-shirts!

Keep stitchin'

Sock it to me

2010-03-06T23:41:00.006-05:00

Sock it to me is right! This pair of socks came out better than my first two attempts. I'd like to think I'll get better and better at making sock...via crochet anyway. I have a long way to go when it comes to knitting socks. Anyway these socks are so unique in the striping pattern. The toe is fairly normal, if that's a word I could use. The cuff is another story altogether. It's more like splashes of color on one side but the other side is striped. I think this happened because I worked in rows rather than rounds as I did in the toe portion.

It's hard to believe that this is even a set/pair of socks let alone one sock but it's true. I think this uniqueness gives these socks really great character. Certainly, I'll never see anyone else wearing these socks. I can't wait to make more! First thing I have to do is come up with a pattern. I kinda winged this one taking a little from this pattern and a little from that one.

Keep stitchin'

Say Amen

2010-02-27T13:06:00.009-05:00

This started out kinda of strange. I wanted to make a simple hat for someone and I wanted to use yarn from the stash I already have. I went through my bins and decided to try something with Lion Brand Incredible and Vanna's Choice. I absolutely love the way these two work together. This is the perfect marriage, I couldn't have chose two better yarns to blend. The Incredible has beautiful shades of brown, pink and gold. The Vanna's Choice being rust blended perfectly. The Incredible, because it's a ribbon/tape has a bit of sheen that just catches the light and shines. The way the light it the yarn every now I was able to see a special speck of light which guided me in a different direction. I was 'inspired' to create this hat for a totally different person and I couldn't convince myself to do otherwise so I went with it and came up with the 'Say Amen' hat.

With a completed hat I thought something is still missing...a purse! So I dug in my bag of tricks and didn't have anymore of the Vanna's Choice in rust, oh no!!! Since I have had this yarn for some time I was worried I wouldn't be able to find anymore of it. So I went to Jo-Ann's with my fingers crossed and was supposed to find plenty of it! So I came home and made the 'Say Amen' clutch. I used the same yarns to make a crocheted button rather than trying to find a button to go with it.

This set, though winter is almost over, YIPPEE!!!!! I think the colors are perfect fall/winter colors. The photo of the hat almost reminds me of pumpkin pie. It could be that I'm hungry, it's past noon and I haven't eaten a thing today.

The set will end up going to a pastors wife that I really like. She already wears just lovely fashions including hats and purses that match. To me, this is a good set to add to her collection. hope she likes it.

Keep stitchin'

Sunday Best hat

2010-02-20T15:14:00.005-05:00

I finally came up with a hat that I think works with the Sunday Best Coat I made. Because I don't have any dolls to use I keep looking up meaurements on the Internet and I think I finally found something that works. It still looks too big to me and if I change the hook size it looks too small so I guess I have to wait until Fall 2010 to see it fits. I think I'll be able to adjust it a bit if it doesn't fit. All in all, very cute outfit.

Keep stitchin'

Express Script...What a joke

2010-02-18T17:48:00.003-05:00

Whose bright idea was express script? So what I'm saving money on my prescription, not if I can't get it delivered so I can take it...HELLO!!!!! What a joke! The csp's talk to you like you're 6 yrs old and never have answers to your questions.
I went to the doctor Saturday, watched the doctor fill out the info and fax my prescription over before I left. Five days later, I didn't even count Sunday, I'm expecting an email saying my script has at least been processed and is on the way...nothing. I go to the website to check my order status and there is no indication that a prescription has been ordered so I call. I'm told that the pharmacist has questions about the prescription and it can't be processed until then. What is there to question? It's the same prescription, no dosage change or anything. Why not indicate in an email that there is an issue?
Eventually I'll get a three-month supply...one day before I have a stroke. I thought pressure pills were supposed to control your blood pressure!!! Ohhhhh, that's right, they do but only if you TAKE THEM!!! What should I do, order every month so that I have a year's worth and never have to run out. That won’t work why, because then they'd say, "It's too soon to order another supply".
GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE IS SO HARD TO FIND.
If you work for express script, TOO BAD!!!! Your service stinks!!!! Let me give you all my info and you can handle me personally every time. Then maybe my opinion will change! What's that? Can't do that can you? FREAKING WASTE OF MY TIME AND LIFE! Thanks a lot Goodwill!!

Keep stitchin'

Sometimes I feel like a nut

2010-02-17T19:15:00.004-05:00

Yeah, those goofy mary-jane slippers that I messed, they are complete with pompoms added and I love them! So, when I feel like a nut, my feet will look nutty too.

Some mistakes are worth it!

Keep stitchin'

Sides does matter

2010-02-16T20:56:00.006-05:00

After taking a huge break from my craft and finally finding my way back, I am learning/discovering more and more about the craft. I have wondered if sides really, really matter, particularly in crochet. I would crochet something and just be glad to be done and have a garment that fits. Now that I am taking the craft more serious, I want that reflected in my hard work.

The Mary-Jane slippers that I just made definitely show that sides do matter.
Exhibit A, my completed Mary Jane slippers…yeah!!

If you look at the contrasting color in the left and right slippers (top is left, bottom right) you can clearly see that sides do matter. I'm showing a close-up shot of where I had to sc2tog. The top (left) has a much smoother look because the new color was added with the garment facing in the right direction. I am not real clear on exactly where I went wrong but being able to see the problem will make me more aware as I make future garments. The problem, most likely is not practicing what I preach (see previous post).
Even with this issue, I have finished the Mary-Janes. I know I will be making more in the near future. Only thing left is finding cute little buttons to put on them. It's definitely easy to make 3-4 pair in a day, depending on your schedule.

Keep stitchin'

Practice what you preach!!

2010-02-15T17:48:00.011-05:00

A lesson hard learnt for so many of us. I teach and constantly have to say things like: Follow instructions, Attention to detail, Read the entire sentence. But many times when I am working on a project, following someone else’s instructions, I need someone over my shoulder telling me the same thing. Yesterday I started on a, what is supposed to be, simple pair of Mary-Jane slippers. A one-day project for most people but not me. Why? Because I don't practice what I preach. I had to ripped this simple little slipper sole two times and then switch to a smaller hook because I could see the sole was way to long. It was looking more like a skinny scarf than the sole of a slipper. So I finally got the sole where I was comfortable and continued. Even though my slipper was arched like a boat and pointed at the toe and the heel, I pressed on. The whole time I'm thinking to myself, hmmm this would probably work better as single crochet but I pressed on. When I got to the very last row I decided, what the heck, I'm shaking things up and doing a row of single crochet. DONE!!!!

Hmmmm, I'm scratching my head. Something ain't right! My slipper looks like an elf shoe! I went back on ravelry and took a look. No one else’s look like elf shoes So I decided to have a good look at the directions again. Maybe I worked too many rows of dc…nope that wasn't it. And then, bam!!! Right in front of my eyes! I feel like Homer Simpson. Duh, the English version, I do believe I am American, says that I should be doing SINGLE CROCHET!!! It really does pay to practice what you preach.

So here you can see the entire episode of starting with the sole, working up the sides, adding the border and there you have it...Keebler Elf! What to do now? I decided to make the best of it. I'm going to make another one exactly the same way and put pom-poms on the toes. What fun!!
Then I'll get back to business and make them the way they are supposed to be made. And this time, I'll practice what I preach.

Keep stitchin'

Just Plain Frilly

2010-02-14T09:32:00.006-05:00

Enough of this darn snow, right? My last posting I spoke about 3hrs of digging snow and how smart it was. Having the whole week off of work made it easy for me to relax and recoup since I couldn't even get to the doctor for pain pills. Thankfully, I worked as a Physical Therapy Aide for seven and half years so I know how to apply heat/ice and stretch out my muscles.

There was also time to work out a new project. I wanted to make a blankie for our new family member and I wanted it to be something a little different. I've never done the diagonal stitch so I figured this would be a good time to try. I'm not sure if I started it right because I just ripped until I was happy with the way it was coming out. Remember, I hurt my back so running back and forth to the computer wasn't an option. Once I got a size that I liked, may not be right because I didn't have any measurement to go by, I needed a border. I wanted something with lots of lacing and maybe some ruffling. I did search for that and found Kim Guzman's friendship squares with a really nice border. It had pretty much everything I wanted and some so I tweaked it a bit to get the look I wanted; basically adding more chains did the trick. All the extra chains and the way I changed my colors gave me enough of the ruffle effect that I wanted. It's just plain frilly.

Since the baby is due in May this blanket is more useful for bedding decor rather than for wrapping baby but I love it anyway and I'm sure Mommy will love it too, right Kiana? I'm glad we have a break from the snow because now I can get out and get a look at the spring/summer yarns for something that the baby wont have to wait to wear.

Keep stitchin'

We got a little snow

2010-02-06T17:22:00.009-05:00

Just a little bit of a snowfall, don't you agree. The snow is so high in my window sills I could hardly see out. This is a shot from my kitchen window. I think it was actually a bit higher but the wind probably blew it down.

I took a shot from the front door as well. Look how preeeeetty!! There is actually a step down to the sidewalk which you can't even see. The walk to my car will be about knee deep. That's my baby right in front of the door shivering. The door on the passenger side is just about up to the door handles. On the driver's side it's higher due to wind drifts; digging out is going to be a bear.

My balcony, on the other hand, reminds me of a beach scene for some reason. I pulled the blinds all the way and sat watching, wishing I was in my hotel room looking over the balcony.

Across the way the neighbors have begun to dig out. Looks like the plows have gotten to the street behind me but not the street in front of my house. I live on a circle so I'm trying not to shoot arrows. I have to remember today is only Saturday, they'll get to us tomorrow. There was one single guy out digging out his car as you can see but I missed him. Notice what's happening though. The snow is being piled into the middle of the parking lot. There are cars on the other right side as well. I already know what's going to happen, the snow plow is going to come through and push a lot of this snow off the sides and block this car right back in unless it's leaving right away.

I choose to stay in and stay warm today since I feel like I'm coming down with a cold. I did make so snow ice cream though!!! I cut back on the vanilla and added green tea to mine. It was yummy and made my teeth chatter. LOL The best part of a weekend like this is sleeping and knitting and sleeping and eating and sleeping and sleeping. Oh, did I forget to mention sleeping.

Keep stitchin'

Sunday Best

2010-01-24T14:04:00.008-05:00

I finally finished the little coat that I started almost two weeks ago. I had to frog and start over several times because the bottom portion was not the look I wanted. Sometimes following a pattern is easier, I don't have to think about sizing. But when I try to bring one of the ideas in my head down to my hands, something gets lost in translation or is it transportation...lol.

Anyway, Sunday Best is finished so I have to come up with a matching hat. Even though my niece is due in May, this little coat is for the colder months. I can't wait to get a photo in the entire outfit, guess that will be in a while. I think I'll have to borrow a teddy bear or something like I've seen other stitchers do.

One of the things I love about this coat is the buttons. Each little button is different because I didn't have a set of buttons to use. I went through my button bag and found one pink, one lilac and one white. With all the specks of red, yellow, blue and green in the yarn I think different color buttons work well. I also love the contrasting waistband woven through. I used this yarn as scrap stitch markers since this is another top down garment but I loved the way the colors blended and wanted to work it into the garment. I saw a few patterns online that had ribbon woven through so that's when the light went off.

Keep stitchin'

I found the other one

2010-01-18T18:29:00.012-05:00

With a little more digging I found the other magazine. This one, by Anne Orr, is full of Knitting, Crochet, Tunisian Crochet and Cross stitch and Embroidery. This book, even though it's older than the previous find by 8 years has a few color pictures inside, that I forgot to take pictures of. Yes, I said it, this book's copyright is 1937!!!. Because the copyright is written so small and of a lighter type than the J.P. Coats book I was not able to get a clear shot of the date. Nonetheless, this book is 73 years old! Talk about your antique.

As you can see on the cover this booklet is all about afghans and there are some really nice ones in here. Want an idea of just how old this booklet is? There is a pattern for a 'Sleigh/Auto Robe'. This lovely piece is done in afghan stitched blocks and then cross-stitching is used to embellish it with horses and Old English lettering of your choice, a pattern also included in the book. It's afghan so you know it's nice and warm for those sleigh rides to town...LOL.

There's a cute little knitted baby afghan with Irish Roses crocheted on it and a ribbon trim. How sweet is this? Awwww

Ok, I saved the one I really like for last! It's this cool knitted afghan with a crochet border to finish. What's so cool about this one is the long stitches every sixth row. I had to give it try and though a bit challenging I was able to work it.

Mine's is far from perfect but its something I could see myself using in the future.

I was a bit curious about dear Anne Orr so I googled her and found some information. I didn't find anything scandalous instead I found someone I would be proud to have known.

Keep stitchin'

Organizing Treasures

2010-01-17T10:13:00.020-05:00

I went back to my locker for another bin with the same idea in mind 'get rid of anything that's not necessary'. Of course I found more yarn but this time, I found a treasure! My Godmother, years ago, gave me a couple of craft magazines that belonged to her mother since none of her own children could/would knit or crochet. Finds like this prove that hoarding isn't always a bad thing. CLARK'S J&P COATS, a booklet full of all kinds knit and crochet gifts. Notice the price 10 cents!!!! and the copyright is the year 1945!

Some of the patterns in here are really nice like the shoulder bag and the handbag.

Seriously how cool are this bags, I would definitely sport them. The items are made from Chadwick's Red Heart baby wool, Chadwick's Red Heart Worsted, J&P Coats or Clark's O.N.T. Pearl Cotton and J&P Coats Tatting Cotton. I tried to figure out what the O.N.T. stands for but I couldn't find anything in the booklet so if anyone knows please leave a comment. The booklet also includes things like a pair of slippers, a loopy dog, an apron and hanger sachets.

This booklet is 65 years old, that's older than my mother! So with finds like this that I know I will continue to treasure my organizing continues and so does my careful examination of everything before I decide to get rid of it. Will I make anything from this book? Hmm, I definitely have my eye in the handbag for someone. What I do need to do is make copies and put the original away to preserve it. The front and back covers have come off, it's a bit tattered around the edges and the pages are turning a bit put everything is still very readable and all the pages including the front and back cover are still there. Hey, this mean I have a true antique!

Keep stitchin'

Organizing for the new year

2010-01-10T14:07:00.023-05:00

With the start of the new year, out with the old and in with the new and all the crap, I decided to attempt to organize my stash and other things in my life as well. I have a storage locker that I need to empty, get back on track with my weight loss, a husband to divorce (yeah me!!!) and a corner/spot in my house loaded with boxes and bags of yarn that needs help. I really got tired of looking at this sad corner. I keep saying corner but it's not even a corner, just a spot next to the sofa that's starting to grow like the blob.

So new year new me, I went to my locker to find storage containers. I decided whatever was in the bins could go unless it is really really important. Low and behold! What have we here! I found a container that had a couple of garments and yarn, more yarn for my stash! So true to my word I threw out the garments since I didn't find them suitable for Goodwill and rescued the yarn. This one container certainly wont hold all my stash but it will make a big difference. Then I can go back later and get another nice big one and empty that one too. I love it, killing two birds with one stone. And with a new baby coming into the family I have yarn to start a blanket without spending money. What's in the stash, 4 one pounders; 3 aran/off white and one baby mint. I know that's more than enough to make a really nice baby afghan. There is also 4 skeins of bright & lofty to make something special as well and a couple of other miscellaneous skeins to put to good use.

Another find during my cleaning/organizing was these really cool people buttons. These buttons were on an African top that I threw out, there was no way I was going to waste the buttons. Don't know yet what I'm going to do with them but I will come up with something.

Well time to get organizing.

Keep stitchin'

My headwrap towel thingy

2010-01-01T18:59:00.005-05:00

I read that cotton is better for drying the hair. Thus the headwrap towel thingy is born. And no I couldn't come up with a better name than that; it works for me. I will be making another one just a bit longer and a bit wider.

Keep stitchin'

Mr. My Heart Belongs to You,

2009-12-31T21:41:00.008-05:00

Dear Mr. My Heart Belongs to You,

As I pray for patience, my insides dance like that of a school girl with the anticipation of our first meeting. Can you feel it? Do you dream of me at night as I do you? Can you hear my voice whispering through the wind, calling out to you? Shhhhhhhh, close your eyes and listen…You, you, you. It is I whispering your name. I know it (your name) but I don’t know it yet. Soon Mr., soon my mouth will sing your name. Soon Mr., soon my arms will hold you in the sweetest embrace. Until then, toast to the New Year, our year and know that as my candle glows warm and soft, so does my desire for you. When you take that first sip of wine for 2010 cherish it because it’s my lips sweetly touching yours. Devour me and dream my love for our day approaches.
In the meantime, this is a craft web site, I’ll continue to craft by day and dream of you by night. LOL
YY

Keep stitchin'

Mr. My Heart Belongs to You

2009-12-23T20:08:00.005-05:00

Dear Mr. My Heart Belongs to You,

As the New Year approaches I think of you more and more and I can’t wait to meet you. What’s taking you so long? When will I be able to put my hand in yours? My arms can’t wait to hold you tight. My lips ache to touch yours. I want to feel your breath on my cheek, in my ear. When will I be able to rest my head on your chest and hear you heartbeat.
Come to me when you know what you want. Do you want riches? Not for me. Do you want fame? Not for me. Do you want simple and uncomplicated? Come to me. Can you handle a little weird and wacky? Come to me. It’s so exciting to think of the adventures we have waiting in our future!
Will 2010 be the year we meet? I hope so; we’re no spring chickens you know. However, I do believe that God will bless us with enough time to love each other with a love we’ve never known before.
Until we meet, I am here, still waiting for you...maybe I'll knit you some socks!!

Keep stitchin'

Erica's Love

2009-12-23T19:30:00.006-05:00

I finally gave Mama her sweater. I have carried this sweater around in the trunk of car since October. I wanted to wait until Mama was ready to listen to the story. Most of my projects come with story but since this one is so special the timing had to be right.

Thanksgiving 2008 most of us were together at my sister Annette's house. Everybody was happy and having a really good time.

I brought out Hard Candy, a car coat I had recently made to inspire my niece to continue knitting and crocheting. Of course everybody loved the coat. But then Erica, who was wearing a really nice sweater herself asked, 'Why am I buying sweater?'.

I'll never forgot that commit because I wanted to actually make one for her. With her untimely passing in August I decided to make the sweater anyway and give it to my mother. I was so nervous and worried about upsetting her when I told her the story of the sweater and the name. Mama was so happy and loves the sweater. She put it right on and didn't take it off. She looks so happy wearing it like she can feel Erica's arms around her.

Keep stitchin'

Got Snow?

2009-12-20T16:37:00.016-05:00

The sky opened and soft, billowy, puff balls fell from the sky! Ok, now that's over and it's time to clean up. I spent nearly two hours shoveling so I can get out to work tomorrow.

Notice the difference in snow distribution due to wind drifts. I could hardly get my door open. I was standing knee deep in snow but two cars down there was barely anything.

I got so carried away shoveling I even shoveled out behind my neighbor's car. Just a little act of kindness.

Keep stitchin'

Mookie Gone Wild!!!!

2009-11-29T14:31:00.006-05:00

Can you spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R.

It's the only word to describe what happened to Mookie, may it rest in peace.
My son's sweater went oh so wrong. I knew the sleeves would be a little too long, I wondered if the body was long enough for him...but this! This I didn't expect...

Hey, remember that episode of the Cosbys when Denise tried to make a shirt for Theo? Well, this is my knitted version! ROFL

All we could do was laugh, no need in crying; though I really wanted to. Everybody was so amazed at what a good job I did even though the sweater didn't come out as planned. Noooow I remember why I'm better at crochet.

Will I try again with this yarn, I think my son's face says it all. I'll just stay away from the super bulky stuff for now thank you. Will I attempt another sweater? I think so; after all, I did get the length right, he loved the neck, everybody loved the cable. So where did I go wrong? I think it's the drop shoulder which lead to the sleeves being way too long. Even though drop shoulder made it easier to keep the sweater even and show less distortion, it was not a great idea for the shoulders of this top. Also my son's arm girth was underestimated so that wasn't quite right either. I guess it's back to the drawing board on this one. I'll salvage this yarn and make a few scarves, a shawl or something. So now I have a new mission, I can not be defeated by the needle...I ain't goin down like at!! My non-resolution list for the new year will include making (knitting) sweaters that fit.

Keep stitchin'

May I present Mookie!

2009-11-27T19:29:00.004-05:00

Finally, after many do-overs it is done!

I can't wait to see Qwante in this sweater. It looks so tiny in this picture but it's actually quite large. It's so big and bulky I know it will only wear it a 'travel' sweater. I definitely see this as more of an over sweater than one that would be worn all day; I know I wouldn't. But maybe when he goes out for his birthday he can wear this over his shirt instead of a coat...hint, hint. I am just so happy to be finish. It was really tough doing this without a pattern which clearly accounts for the longer sleeves. I'm not too concerned about that considering a lot of the younger people like having their sleeves longer anyway. Did I say that, younger people. Boy am I getting old!

Keep stitchin'

Mookie Lives!!!

2009-11-07T17:04:00.007-05:00

So after all the headache with trying to follow the pattern for Bang which was no good at all, I found something that works. I have been out sick all week with the flu so, being a good patient, I spent the week reading/looking through some of my old knitting mags. Some of the old 90's Vogue Knitting mags really helped. The mags had sweater with drop shoulders and set-in sleeves. I decided that doing a simple drop shoulder would be the easiest for me with this thick yarn. So now, as long as I've got the gauge right my sweater will be a hit. I also decided to use the cable pattern I found in my Harmony Guide book. I think a simple turtle neck will do nicely, my son did not like the neck anyway.

By Friday I was feeling up to moving around a bit and picking up my needles. The back piece was done quickly and easily since my only shaping was done at the shoulders. What I overlooked with the front is that with cables you need to add more stitches to keep your width right. I was at the underarm when I had this brilliant revelation; back to the ripping board. So once again I have to start the front over. Oh, this is after I had finished the back and actually worked 10" of the front and realised I had forgotten the cables completely!!
LOL, I CRACK MYSELF UP!!

Blame it on the flu, yeah that works, it's the flu bug.

So now I am starting the front over with more stitches than I used for the back. This is another problem I would finally have noticed with John's sweater too, the hits just keep coming with that one.

With my Mookie, I am doing careful, elementary math and hoping for the best. At least I know there are absolutely no errors in the cable pattern I am now using and this is going to be one great sweater! I'm proud of myself already.

Keep stitchin'

Bang is going bust!

2009-10-28T17:39:00.002-04:00

What's the deal with the John Brinegar sweater? There is an error in the pattern that results in losing a stitch. Now math is definitely not my thing but I can count to 30...thank you Sesame Street!!! LOL The pattern only writes out the instructions for the odd rows and tells me to 'knit the knits and purl the purls on the even rows. Well when it comes to algebra, you know how some people can get the answer right using only three steps? Well when I do algebra I have to do every single little step or I may forget something important and get the wrong answer. So I had to sit and right out every step of the even rows and was doing good...until row 17. Row 17 is where the stitch is lost. I am not experienced enough with cables to figure this one out but I am smart enough to see that the pattern goes from 30 stitches to 29 from rows 17-25. So Bang went this sweater and I will be attempting to use another cable pattern. So back to the drawing boards my son needs a sweater by Christmas!

Keep stitchin'

My freaking needles broke!!

2009-10-22T09:00:00.003-04:00

OMG, I started my next project, a really cool sweater for my son. Right in the middle of a row the needle came apart. What worries me most is that even when I replace the needles it will probably happen again because of the weight of the yarn. This pattern, called Bang, requires super bulky yarn. Really great to work with but it may be too heavy for the needles. I may have to find a way to adapt the pattern to crochet version with cables. I've done several crocheted cardigans with cables so that's easy. Crochet will require more yarn and I am already worried that I don't have enough anyway. Whatever, whatever, I'm going to work it out and produce a sweater my boy will be proud to wear.

Keep stitchin'

He knits!! Is he gay?

2009-10-20T11:30:00.005-04:00

Sound stupid to you? Me too. I recently spoke with someone and told them that I wanted to join a co-ed knitting/crochet meetup...so tired of my four walls. Anywho, I was asked, 'do men really get into that?' I almost fell over. "Are you kidding me?" I started giving names, Drew, The Crochet Dude; Ken, The Crochet Guy; John Brinegar. Ok, I could only name three, but still. Why would someone just assume that men who share the love of the craft are gay? How ridiculous is that!!! What difference does it make? You probably can't afford what they make anyway!! Small minded people, why can't I just stick a needle in their eye!!
Just venting.

Keep stitchin'

Colours in Randallstown

2009-10-03T19:00:00.011-04:00

After hearing about the a yarn shop in Randallstown I had to go check it out. So today I popped in for a visit. What a nice place!

The owner Thelma greeted me with a smile that made me feel at home right away. The shelves were stacked neatly with lots of colors. There were comfy sofas and chairs to sit and stitch. Thelma has classes too! I had opportunity to watch her in action. A young girl, about 11ish or so came in with Mommy so she could learn more about knitting. Thelma sat her at the table and patiently worked with her. I am so excited for her and can't wait to see her finished scarf. She will making something with cables for the first time...awwwww So anyone in the area that never took a class because it was too far, can't use that one anymore. Thelma knits and crochets so she's got you covered what ever your talent. Oh, in the back she has an area where you can wind your own yarn instead of fighting with hanks!

Some of the work displayed around the shop is beautiful. There's a mannequin at the front door wearing a lovely jacket that I would really like to make. I stayed for quite some time browsing through books and trying to decide what yarn to buy. Mostly Noro and Cascade but lots and lots of color choices and weights. I can't wait to go back again. Hope to see you there.

Keep stitchin'

Getting back into the swing...needle?

2009-09-26T12:45:00.006-04:00

So, I in my kitchen cooking and got a good look at my dishcloth. DON'T EVEN ASK FOR DETAILS. Needless to say, I should get new ones, now! Since I already have a few Lily's Sugar & Cream in the house I went to ravelry to find a simple pattern. I found the cutest little cloth called Chinese Waves. It's so easy to follow, has great texture and works up easy. The pattern is available on the designer's website. I want to make a set to use as face cloths too.

I have also been working out the details for this knitted skirt called Sidewinder. It has short rows that I expected to be challenging but so easy. The I-cord that separates each gore isn't that hard either, bit tiresome, but not difficult at all. Not having the yarn I'd like to make the skirt gave me a chance to get comfortable with the pattern and know I will have one awesome skirt when I am ready to begin.

Keep stitchin'

I had no idea

2009-09-23T20:44:00.004-04:00

I had no idea I'd be violently awakened from my sleep that morning. As I rushed to the porcelain throne, careful not to bump my toes, I wondered why? I had salad for lunch and no dinner. As I hung there waiting for the inevitable, it stopped as suddenly as it had started though it left me a bit woozy. I was not able to get back to sleep, just couldn't shake that strange feeling in the pit of my stomach...

I had no idea my cell phone would ring that morning, no one calls me at work.

I had no idea I forgot my charger so my cell battery was dead.

I had no idea I would be asked to come to Mama's house as soon as I could.

I had no idea August 27, 2009 would change my life.

I had no idea the call I missed was my mother calling for help.

I had no idea what the news at Mama's house would be so bad.

I had no idea that my baby sister, probably at the moment I was awakened, lay on the seat of her car shot three times.

I had no idea there would never be another chance to right wrongs.

I had no idea there would never be another chance to say let me help you.

I had no idea there would never be another chance to love you or I'm proud of you.

I had no idea God would touch me and strengthen me from the inside out that morning.

I had no idea how important it would be for me to be so strong over the days to follow.

I have no idea how long it's going to take for my feet to finally touch the ground again. When will this stop being a bad dream.

Keep stitchin'

Keeping busy

2009-07-23T15:42:00.023-04:00

I have been trying to stay busy with small projects. Just finished couple of dishcloths, square thingies, a cell pouch, a camera pouch and attempted a knit skirt. I found this little kitty on the net. Since I am trying to increase my knitting speed I figured this would make a good, quick project.

Next, I decided to make something using tunisian crochet. I wanted something to protect my camera from scratches so...The Camera Pouch!

After I created the camera pouch, my friend wanted one for her cell phone. She gave me her bright orange yarn that made me think of Cheetos the entire time I was working with this yarn. I kid you not, I kept looking for that orange build up on my fingers! Since I couldn't get Cheetos out of my head I ended buying a huge bag and crunched my heart out, AND, licked the orange stuff off each finger! YUMMY!!!

Then finally, finding a pattern/formula to knit a top down skirt for the perfect fit, I decided give that a try. Something I knew would keep me busy for a while. Once I got the formula right, after ripping the skirt twice, I was on my way. This is a great formula that allows for lots of creativity. Once I get my hands on some yarn, I will definity use this pattern to make an originally mine skirt.

Keep stitchin'

Computer down, computer down!!!!

2009-06-25T20:12:00.007-04:00

My internet and land line have been down for almost the entire month of June...Thank You Comcast!!! Everything is finally back up and running and I can get back on top of things.

My cardi to match my skirt is done!! I still need to add the buttons to the cardi and the fastener to the skirt but other than that, I am done and on to the next project.

Keep stitchin'

Mocha

2009-06-03T18:30:00.014-04:00

I got bored over the Memorial Day weekend of course the only thing to do to alleaviate this was to crochet! To break the monotony of always making tops I decided to try another skirt. I am so happy with the way this skirt came out that I am going to make a cardi and matching shell to go with it.

Keep stitchin'

Autumn Winds

2009-06-03T18:21:00.004-04:00

Another sweater done. Of course it's top down construction based on the sweet formula. I wanted a nice fitted look but not button down. I think I got it.

Keep stitchin'

Green & Fingerless

2009-05-17T10:39:00.012-04:00

I am part of the Green Team on my job and we were asked to contribute some 'green facts' for an upcoming breakfast/fashion show we are having next month. What better way for me to talk about going green then to create some knit/crochet items using eco yarns and recycled sweaters. I'm using a skein of Simply Soft Eco to knit a pair of fingerless mitts found on ravelry. The designer claims these mitts to be easy and fast. So far they are living up to the name. I have not knitted in years, more than five, and I am having so much fun I have toss my latest wip aside, I will get back to crochet later. I thought I would have a problem with knitting but it is going so smooth and easy. After using crochet hook and working through the pain and cramping I am now ready for some serious knitting. If I am not careful I will end up frogging my sweater when all I have left to do is finish the edges and weave my ends.

I finished my mitts!! Wow, what a quick and easy project.

Keep stitchin'

My socks are done!!

2009-05-09T09:49:00.009-04:00

Oh boy!

I can't believe they look and feel so nice. Now I don't have to hate wearing socks in the winter because they are cutting into my big calves. I can't wait to get more sock yarn. There are lots of socks in my future!!

Keep stitchin'

Sock!!!

2009-05-04T19:04:00.048-04:00

Yesterday I decided to put the tops down and try something different. I chose socks.

Very scary after the first pair I made that were way to big. This time I am doing toe up and they really look like socks...And they fit!!

I love the color of the yarn I bought. The fleshy, tannish pink and the pastel green remind me of Rainbow Sherbet (probably because I had some over the weekend).

I am very proud of myself, I'm not hardly finish but I am very optimistic about this pair.

Well, back to work!!

Keep stitchin'

Wrap it up

2009-05-02T16:15:00.013-04:00

Summer's coming!! I think we're all ready for it but if you work in an office like I do, you know what else is coming...freezing AC!! I know lots of you look forward to this but I hate being too cold or too hot. My room gets cold and I can't think straight, I can't type. I already have socks in my bottom drawer because my sandaled feet are going to be so cold. So I decided to whip up a quick and easy shawl to throw over my shoulders, or my feet, when I start to shiver. I made this based on Romantic, a speed hook shawl found on the Lion Brand web site. Very quick and easy for any beginner to make.

Well, on to my next project. I want to attempt a pair of socks that fit and I am looking forward to doing some knitting again. I would love to make some cute little baby thing! I may have to do that anyway, eventually some babies will come along...LOL

Keep stitchin'

Berry Cherry

2009-04-25T17:39:00.018-04:00

Next top done!
Who knew? Amy O'Neill Houck gave us this formula for making top-down garments using a pattern called Sweet in September of 2006. I wonder if she had any idea that this form of crochet would be so popular, that's in my opinion. I have trouble imagining making a top one piece at time and stitching it together ever again. That is unless I am making a creation by someone else.
Again, a different look achieved from the same pattern. The neck is different and the stitch is quite different this time. I also added a tassel to cover a flaw.

It is bright, bright, beautiful day my son came to visit. Always good to see him! He was my photographer today. I think he did good.

Keep stitchin'

Weight Watchers news

2009-04-24T21:22:00.004-04:00

Ok folks, I'm down 5.4 lbs!!!!

I can't get too excited because I have a long way to go. It's still nice to see the scale go down instead of up. Anyone else fighting the battle, don't give up we can do this!!

Amigurumi

2009-04-24T21:05:00.005-04:00

I just finished another top that will be posted when I get pictures under good light. In the meantime, just for my fix, I made my first amigurumi today! I found a pattern on ravelry for this cute little doggie that was fairly easy to make. The instructions were not very clear but together with the symbols I was able to figure it out with very little error. I think the head is too big for the little body but other than that I think I did pretty good.

Awwww, isn't he cute!!! Just think I don't have to feed or work him either.

Keep stitchin'

Weight Watchers

2009-04-20T19:04:00.007-04:00

I'm finally getting back to posting...YEAH!!! I joined Weight Watchers at the beginning of the month and have spending time in the books trying to get a bit of an understanding of how this thing works. So far I've only lost 4 pounds but every one of those little buggers that melts away counts in my favor. My biggest problem is eating enough to get all my points in, never thought that would be so hard to do. Some people don't realize that if you, if I, don't eat enough it's just the same as eating too much. So eating 3-5 times a day is very hard for me. I tend to get so busy that I don't want to stop to eat or maybe it's that I have gotten used to pushing hunger aside and focusing on other things. Now I have to retrain myself to pay attention to the hunger pangs in order to be successful.

In the meantime, I continue to crochet. My newest top, Orange Sherbet is done. I finished it a couple of weeks ago and have actual worn it but, as I mentioned, I've been busy with Weight Watchers. Anyway, Orange Sherbet is made pretty much the same as the Ocean Breeze top. There are slight variations that may not be noticeable to anyone but me.

Keep stitchin'

Broomstick Lace

2009-03-22T13:58:00.005-04:00

I signed up for the broomstick lace class with Kim Guzman on crochetville. I expected much difficulty but it was so easy. I bought the size 50 knitting needles, they are humongous! No problem there either. But then it's not the same as knitting with them. I chose to make the scarf rather than a shawl. I didn't want to put pressure on myself and fail another project. Instead, I am looking forward to making another one for this winter. I plan to use a lighter weight yarn so that it's more for dress than for warmth.

I would love to work this up in a light weight varigated yarn for spring/summer. Maybe Paton's Grace would be really good. I just figure out the best size needle to use.

Broomstick and Hairpin lace are two forms of crochet I've always wanted to learn. Well, I have one down, one to go!

Keep stitchin'

Ocean Breezes blowing

2009-03-20T15:57:00.006-04:00

So I think I'm finish Ocean Breeze. Not sure if I like the sleeves though. I am having a problem with the shoulder dropping too far over with most of the tops I make. Gotta find an answer for that. With the Chan tops its not a problem because it's all the same the pattern. The shoulder always look fluid with the rest of the garment.
I love the way the sleeves bellow in the wind but I may have to make them a bit longer. The neckline is perfect for me. I was worried I would have to alter the V-neck because it was too low but it is just right. I added a row of shell stitching around the neckline to punch it up a bit, very sexy! I did have a little trouble with joining the rounds so I have the slightest pucker on the side. I trying not to stress over it though or I'll end up frogging and doing the whole bottom section over.
OMG! I AM A PERFECTIONIST!!!
On the other hand, I did a great job a weaving in my end. It's my best job ever, if I say so myself.

Keep stitchin'

Ocean Breeze

2009-03-16T17:32:00.006-04:00

It seems me and Doris were just not getting along this time. The top I wanted to make was not cooperating. It's probably me so I still luv ya Doris but I choose to go another route. I think I am still stressed over not being able to make sense of the Moderne Jacket and needed to complete something to redeem myself. Well I found it!! What I needed was something that I could definitely complete and would not require a lot of thought. So I fell back on my old standby. Sweet from Crochet Me. The bottom portion of my 'Ocean Breeze' is from Doris' book Everyday Crochet. I love the way this top is coming out. I wanted to start making some tops for spring/summer and I think I found the right look. I'm not done yet, of course I have to make it longer to cover all my yummies...LOL. I also plan to add a bit more sleeve using the same pattern that's at the bottom of the top. I want to give a bit of flow to the sleeves for the 'ocean waves effect'.
Anyone planning to use this yarn, Lion Brand Microspun, beware of the stretch. I found this yarn to be rather stretchy and very soft to the touch. I used a J hook at the top/shoulder portion and then switched to an I hook for two rows and then transitioned to an H hook for the bust for, for less exposure. The transitions gave a really nice effect by simply changing the hook size, wasn't sure I would like it at first but now I think it adds lots of character. I transitioned to a K hook for the bottom shells in an effort to avoid adding more stitches though I may eventually need to in order to work around my tummy and hips. I think this may be my best Sweet yet. I think I may finally be getting the fit I want which means I'll feel comfortable making one for someone else!
Humble words to any of my followers or visitors: In my opinion, If you want to try your first top/sweater, this is a pattern I would put at the top of the list. You will eventually come up with different ways to change it up so that you always have a different style of sweater/top!

Keep stitchin'

New project

2009-03-14T11:21:00.005-04:00

I needed something to make me feel better after the CAL fumble so last night I registered with Kim Guzman to learn broomstick crochet on Crochetville. I ordered my size 50 needles and even a hairpin lace loom, something else I want to learn, from Jo-Ann's. I paid the extra to make sure it would get here in time to start the class.

I also started another top by Doris Chan, Runaround. I have run into a problem with it but I know it will work itself out. I'm using microspun in blue. I just finished the third row and now I'm just a bit puzzled. I posted a question on ravelry so I know I will get some answers soon.

I want to make sure I am following the master's instructions. I was told to join my 11 fsc's to the beginning chain with a sl st and fasten off. See where the question is? I am told to sk next corner of front and join at the ch-sp corner of next inc-sh at back and work across (see photo).

That's it. I know I must be sleep walking and this is so simply but after so much frogging earlier this week on the another project, I can feel warts on my forehead...LOL.

Keep stitchin'

My CAL is a bust

2009-03-12T22:53:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately I was not able to complete the CAL. There is definitely something off in the instructions it was starting to make me feel like such an idiot. I can't even say how disappointed I am right now. But, on the up side, I bought some Microspun over the weekend and started a new top. I love Microspun!! It has a nice sheen and so soft. The drape is going to be delicious. I'm not real happy with the pattern I chose, another Sweet, so I'm going to frog it and make another Doris Chan instead.
NOW I FEEL BETTER:-)

Keep stitchin'

CAL is underway!

2009-03-09T18:34:00.004-04:00

Well, I got my yarn yesterday. I was supposed to be just doing my swatch to get a feel for the yarn but once I tried it I just couldn't stop. I love my yarn choice and and look forward to wearing this next fall. If I am able to get past the one stumbling block I have so far. I am having trouble getting the left front to come out right. The pattern says that I start with 35 sts, do 1 dec leaving 34 sts. This is where it gets dicey. I have to next work 7 rows even but I am not getting 34 sts, I only get 33. This is making me nuts. After the 7 rows I have to do another dec leaving 33 sts. Something is not right here.

Keep stitchin'

I'm joining a CAL!!!

2009-03-05T18:51:00.008-05:00

I am so excited. I DOING A CROCHET ALONG!!
I have read other blogs and boards where people have talked about doing CAL's and wanted to do one myself. Finally, after searching around I found one on the Lion Brand website.
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/60617AD.html?noImages=

I really like this jacket, it has a great texture rather than just plain sc or dc. I'm not crazy about doing a jacket in pieces, I grown accustomed to doing seamless top down. I don't think I'll be using the cashmere blend yarn that Lion Brand suggest for this pattern either. I looked at the section on yarn substitutions and found that Vanna's Choice and Pound of Love fit my budget much better. Another sub is Glitterspun...oh that may be fun!

So, I'll be off the Joann's this weekend to get ready. It start next Thursday 3/12 so if you want join in, get ready.

Keep stitchin'

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2009-03-05T17:13:00.024-05:00

I know it's been a minute but it's so cold here. Our gas and electric company, BGE, is off the hook. Some people's bill is two to three times higher even though they have not made any significant changes in their life styles. Honestly, I keep my thermostat set at 62-65 degrees and shiver wrap in shawls and sweaters. Thank goodness for handcrafts!! I can so easily whip up a hat, a neck warmer or a pair of bed socks to keep me warm. It's been too cold to sit at the computer or do anything but stay wrapped up and wait for the heater fan to kick in. As soon as I start to thaw and cuts off and amazingly in about a minute I'm shivering again. So since it's a bit warmer today... yeah, and even warmer this weekend, I can get caught up.

I bought Doris Chan's book 'Everyday Crochet and made her sweater called Soft Serve. It was a bit sketchy in the beginning because the directions seemed off, to me. What I've learned is that I have to simply trust and follow the directions. Mine came out really nice. I used Caron Simply Soft. The book says its a good bed jacket but once I saw it I knew I wanted it for day/evening wear. It's perfect for covering my arms when I wear a sleeveless dress. The yarn drapes very well and the garment looks very feminine.

I also created a couple of heart-shaped bookmarks for Valentine's Day. They were given to two lovely sisters to use in their bibles. I used J&P Coats Royale Crochet Thread #10. I have not worked with this thread in quite some time worried that it would bother my arthritic hands, espesically during the cold weather. I guess because it was such a quick project I had no problems. One of them has hearts on each end while the other has beads added to glitz it up a bit.

Lets see what else do I have. Oh, I made a hat to match my coat. I found a pattern on the Lion Brand website that called for one skein of yarn. Since I already had some green yarn in my stash I figured it is perfect. Instead of using Lion Brand Homespun like the pattern called for I used Red Heart Light & Lofty which is another super bulky yarn that works up really fast. The hat is kinda goofy looking but very warm and roomy since I just braided my hair.

Keep stitchin'

Dishcloths

2009-02-01T11:36:00.015-05:00

I found a really cool Tunisian stitch dishcloth on Ravelry and wanted to give it a try. I like it a lot and it was easy once I understood how to get the second wedge started. http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tunisian-short-row-dishcloth

The other one is just a simple pattern of single and double crochet. Another pattern found on Ravelry. http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dorothea-dishtowels
It's supposed to be 10.5 inches but I ran out of yarn at 9.5. I love the natural pattern of stripes that came out in this cloth. It looks as though I put some thought into creating a diagonal plaid design. I can definitly see myself making a set of dishcloths with this yarn, or should I say cotton. What is it? Lily Sugar'n Cream.

Keep stitchin'

Crochet classes

2009-02-01T11:27:00.007-05:00

I started offering crochet classes at work. This past Friday was my second class. My first class only one person showed but this time I had two. I had a lefty and a right-handed person which made things much more interesting. I actually made an attempt to crochet left-handed in order for my student to get a better understanding.

I have a simple pattern for a dishcloth/potholder that will teach single crochet and double crochet to complete the project.

Keep stitchin'

Completed sweater

2009-02-01T11:16:00.008-05:00

Finally getting around to posting pics of my last sweater. It's been one of those weird times when I don't want to do much of anything but sit in front of the TV and crochet. So now that I'm back on track, kinda, I'm posting.
I think it came out very nice. I still have not put buttons on but I went to Jo-Ann's yesterday and bought bone rings to make them. I saw a cool pattern right there at the store to show you how to make the buttons. I shouldn't have any trouble making something similar.

Keep stitchin'

Round Motifs

2009-01-22T16:04:00.015-05:00

I finished my red, white & black cardigan. Final pics will be loaded after I get someone to take pictures of me in it. So, I move on other projects.

ROUND MOTIFS: I found this really cool top in an old CROCHET! mag. It's a very skimpy halter top that I would never wear but the motifs can be used to make something I would wear.
This pattern is so pretty. I know they probably look like hexagons but they are not. The pattern reads:
Rnd 1: Ch 4, 15 dc in the 4th ch from hook, join with a sl st in 4th ch of beg ch-4. (16 dc) (I choose to use the magic ring for a tighter close in the center).
Rnd 2: Ch 3, 2 dc in next st [dc in next st, 2 dc in next st] around, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch-3. Fasten off. (24 dc)
It says to make 30 motifs, arrange motifs and sl st them together.
My question: How do I join round motifs. I have never done any work with motifs before so... help is needed on this one. Squares, I don't see a problem. Hexagons, I don't see a problem. But round; don't quite get it yet so I can't go shopping for yarn. :(

I had to take my car in for service this morning, freaking up because the engine light was on. Guess how much it cost (drum roll please) NOTHING!!!! it was something to do with the thermostat but it was covered under warranty. What a relief!! I took my travel supplies with me, yarn and hook, and I made a very nice hat while I waited. All thanks to Dot http://patternsbydot.blogspot.com/2005/11/bobble-beauty.html

This hat was very quick and simple. It calls for two rows of bobbles. I think if I make another one I'll add another row or two of bobbles.

Keep stitchin'

Red, White & Black

2009-01-18T10:04:00.027-05:00

Well, I was supposed to be working on The Chevron Lace Cardigan based on the pattern and software download by Milobo http://milobo.wordpress.com/ I am not happy with my yarn choice. Someone gave me some Reynolds Lopi Lite which is 100% wool. I have never worked with 100% wool before so it takes some getting used to. So I frogged it, toss it aside and started looking for idea for something else.

I don't do New Year's Resolutions, too disappointing, I do Life Changes. So this year's life changes in the craft department include working with colors and texture and better fit. I also look forward to trying crochet with wire and beads.

Anyway, yesterday I started a cardigan based on the Sweet pattern by Amy Houck http://crochetme.com/sweet.

I can't get enough of this pattern. Any beginning can used this pattern and make the perfect sweater on the first try. In this one sweater, I have already achieved my 'life change'. I have colors, texture and the fit is awesome. I thing of either making this a twin set with matching shell or mock twin set with the inset shell front.

Here is a closer shot of the texture I added with a simple twists of the switches. This whole design is inspired by fellow member on Ravelry that I added to my fav's. I hope she doesn't mind. But thanks Riotflower http://www.ravelry.com/projects/riotflower/sweet-sweater

I bought a skein of Paton's Grace yesterday. I just want to experiment with it, get a feel for it and maybe that will make a great lacy cardigan for spring. My son and his girlfriend have adopted a godchild so maybe it would be good to make a cute little jumper or cardi for her. I think if I wanted to make a sweater for myself I'd want to use two strands together just to bulk it some a bit so it would take to freaking long to get it done. But isn't beautiful! Lots of lilac, lavender, white, and sky blue. Of course all these colors probably go by different names but I'm old school.

Keep stitchin'

Shawl complete

2008-12-29T18:29:00.003-05:00

My Seraphina Angel Shawl is complete. I had a rocky start but once I got the knack of how the pattern flowed it went very easy, and quickly. It took about 7 1/2 skiens of yarn and approximately 2 1/2 days to complete the shawl. The instructions say that this shawl typically has 25 shells per side but I stopped at 19. Since my mother is on the small side I think this is more than big enough. I think she will be happy. Since this is easily a weekend project, I may just make one for myself next month.

Keep stitchin'

Seraphina Shawl

2008-12-27T18:42:00.000-05:00

I think I've got if finally!

I had to frog this no less than 10 times, but I think I've got it now. I on row 19 and its looking good. I'm not sure if I'll be finished by my Sunday deadline...maybe by Monday evening. Then, since I finally got my first subscription issue of Crochet! magazine, I can find my next project. This shawl may infact be gifted to my mother and I'll have to find something else to wrap up in.

Keep stitchin'

And the stitch goes on

2008-12-26T19:15:00.000-05:00

Christmas has gone, the gifts are opened. The wrappings and ribbons thrown out, what to do now? START A NEW PROJECT. WOO HOO!!!
I've seen several really beautiful Seraphina Angel Shawls on the net and with it being so cold out, it's the perfect project. So I started one about an hour ago. I've had to frog it a couple of times but I think I've got it now.

I'm using a a yarn from Bernat called Caress so it should work up really quick. Having to read the instructions because I haven't quite got the pattern memorized yet is slowing me down... what a drag. I hope to finish by Sunday.
Is it obvious I don't have a life. sighhhhhh

Keep stitchin'

2008-12-25T10:36:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas

I recieved a gift certificate to Micheals for Christmas, can't wait to go out and touch some yarn. I think I'll get the stretch sock yarn this time.

Keep stitchin'

Every top needs a bottom

2008-12-24T16:33:00.000-05:00

What goes better with a top than a bottom? The only
thing I could think of is a nice skirt to go with the
sweater that came out so well. I think top down crochet is definitely becoming a fav of mine.
To complete this skirt I used BLO sc to give lots of stretch in the waist. After wearing it one time I do believe I will still have to add a bit of elastic to the waist because the fabric is going to stretch it a bit; I do not want a wardrobe malfunction!
After completing the waist I used single crochet across edges of the single crochet increasing to fit my hips for a few inches. Once the width was satisfactory I switched back to the shell stitch that I used on the bottom portion of the top until I was happy with the length.
I got lots of compliments on my finished product!!

Keep stitchin'

I Love Hard Candies

2008-12-24T15:48:00.001-05:00

My first Car Coat

This coat worked up so quick and easy I couldn't believe I made it. The yarn I used: Lion Boucle 'Hard Candies' purchased from http://www.smileysyarns.com/ where you can get yarn at ridiculously low prices. Hook size N is used so it goes really quick.

I used the Sweet pattern, http://www.crochetme.com/sweet to get me started. This is the same Top Down pattern I used to make my Smokey Sweater set. This was so fun and easy I definitely see more in my future and I can't wait to experiment with other yarns, especially light weights for summer.

Hey I have my own photographer/model to help me out. But wait does she look better in the coat than I do!! Shhhhhhhh We can't tell her that or there may be trouble...LOL Why the blur, I think she's in the witness protection program or something and didn't want me show her face or use her name.

Keep stitchin'

Bed Socks and broom sticks!

2008-12-24T15:32:00.000-05:00

Ok, so there are no broom sticks but I have finally made wearable socks!

I used Vanna's worsted weight yarn and the pattern from a lovely book, Learn to Crochet Socks by Kathy Wesley, so they are definitely too big to wear with shoes but they are perfect as bed socks. When I wear them to bed at night to watch TV my feet stay toasty warm.
I gave a pair to a friend for Christmas; I'll find out soon how much she likes them.
I can't wait to try the new stretch yarn by Patons to attempt to make socks that can be worn with shoes.

Keep stitchin'

Don't trust the State Board of Elections

2008-10-20T17:28:00.000-04:00

Well, never thought I'd have much to say about this. I sent in my address change to get ready to vote y'all!!! Would you believe the Maryland State Board of Elections is giving people the wrong polling information... I kid you not!!

This is the information from the Internet, as well as from the card I was sent. I tried to look the school up on mapquest so that I would know actually where to go on Election Day. I continued to get the message that basically said this place did not exist. I called the State Board who insisted that's what they have in their systems so if must be right. While the man was on the phone, I tried to google the school and guess what, it came up with a different zip code and I was able to mapquest it.

THEY ARE IDIOTS!!!!

Check your information now, don't rely on your state to have the information correct!!

Keep stitchin'

I've been busy

2008-10-05T11:54:00.000-04:00

I've worked on several new projects. I like to call this sweater Green apples!. It's made with Jo Ann's Sensations Rainbow Classic yarn. With a few more rows it would be a dress.

And then below, there's Smokey, a nice soft yarn from Red Heart called Smyphony, the color is actually Charcoal. It's oh so soft and delicate.

Keep stitchin'

New yarn disappointment

2008-08-13T17:10:00.000-04:00

I ordered some new yarn Friday and waited for it to come. It did come in a timely manner, Yesterday (8/12/08) but I am so disappointed in my purchase. I tried to step out of the box just to work with somethingnew, this is the result.

I ordered a yarn called MODA DEA Curious and this is what the skein looks like and a small swatch looks like. I knew absolutely nothing about this yarn when I bought it but I see why it was clearance priced. Because it's clearance priced of course I can't return it so I have to make it work. Whoa!!! Hear that Tim Gunn, I'm gonna make it work.

But wait...there's more. I ordered another brand as well,

Lion brand INCREDIBLE. This is a beautiful yarn, excuse me TAPE, but what to do with it other than a scarf, coasters, placemats, hmmmm.

Both of these are what they call 'tape' in the bulky weight group. I looked them up on the Internet and pretty much the only items being made with either of these is scarves. I don't think I'll

be needing that many scarves!!

Anybody with a better idea let me know. I would definitely appreciate it.

Keep stitchin'

Me and George in Mexico

2008-08-10T11:11:00.000-04:00

George is not my pet George is a tourist attraction in Mexico. I went to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in September '07 and among the fun adventures I had, I did the city tour. Along the tour there was a hotel called Barcelo La Jolla de Mismaloya, this hotel infamous for the movie Night of the Iguana starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Because of this the iguana has become part of the attraction there.

More sweater info

2008-08-10T10:56:00.000-04:00

Thanks to everyone who has visited me and commented on my sweater. A few overlooked details have been brought to my attention.

Hook size - I used 'K' just as the package required for gauge.
Guage - I did not have a specific gauge, I just ripped alot until I got it right fit.
Finished size - I customed this to fit me and all my lumps and bumps so it is somewhere between an 18/20 in the bust area and 20/22 in the hip area.

This is easily customizable to your size simply by adding and subtracting rows from the center portion of the bodice and, of course, then you would have to decrease or increase stitches picked up along the bottom portion of the bodice.

Keep stitchin'

Sweater crude schematic

2008-08-09T15:49:00.000-04:00

For some, following the schematic

may be easier than reading my

instructions.

The finished product. SUCCESS!!

Just stitchin'

2008-08-09T15:19:00.001-04:00

My Fuschia Sweater

This is my first attempt at writing directions so they may not be perfect but they are simple enough to follow. The bodice of the sweater is worked vertically with the peplum stitches picked up along the bottom edge. The sleeves are worked in the same manner.
Note: This pattern was created specifically for my body/shape so some alterations made be required.

Stitches Used: Hdc and sc.
Pattern Used: Solid Shell Stitch
Yarn Used: Lion Brand Homespun but almost any yarn should work.

Front
Bodice
Rows 1: Ch20
Rows 2-4: Hdc in 2rd ch from hook and in each stitch across. 18st.
Row 5: Hdc in each st across DO NOT TURN at the end of the row. Ch29.
Row 6: Hdc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each st across. 45st.
Rows 7-25: Hdc in every st across.
Row 26: Hdc in the first 25st leaving remaining 20st unworked.
Rows 27-56: Hdc in each st across. 25st.
Row 57: Hdc in each st across and DO NOT TURN. Chain 22. Hdc in second chain from hook and each stitch across. 45st.
Rows 58-76: Hdc in each st across.
Row 77: Hdc in the first 18st leaving the remaining stitches unworked.
Rows 78-80: Hdc in each st across. Finish off.

Peplum
Pick up 78 stitches evenly spaced along bottom edge. Here you can pick up more stitches by Hdc twice in the same stitch if you prefer a more flared (A-line) peplum. The directions call for a multiple of 6st plus 1 for the foundation chain.
Row 1: 1sc into 2nd ch from hook *skip 2ch, 5dc into next ch, skip 2cdh, 1sc into next ch, rep from * to end, turn.
Row 2: 3ch (count as 1dc0, 2dc into first st, *skip 2dc, 1sc into next dc, skip 2dc, 5dc into next sc, rep from * ending last rep with 3dc into last sc, skip tch, turn.
Row 3: 1ch, 1sc into first st, *skip 2dc, 5dc into next sc, skip 2dc. 1 sc into next dc; rep from * ending last rep with 1sc into top of tch, turn.Rep row 2 and 3 for pattern until it reaches the length you desire. (I wanted mine to be a bit longer. I counted 15 shells/rows from the top of the peplum).

Back
Bodice
Row 1: Ch20
Rows 2-4: Hdc in 2nd ch from hook and in each stitch across. 18st.
Row 5: Hdc in each st across. DO NOT TURN at the end of the row. Ch 29.
Row 6: Hdc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each st across. 45st.
Rows 7-25: Hdc in every st across.
Row 26: Hdc in the first 40 st leaving the remaining 5st unworked.
Rows 27-56: Hdc in each st across. 40st.
Row 57: Hdc in each st across and DO NOT TURN. Chain 7. Hdc in 2nd chain from hook and each stitch across. 45st.
Rows 58-76: Hdc in each st across.
Row 77: Hdc in the first 18st leaving the remaining stitches unworked.
Rows 78-80: Hdc in each st across. Finish off.

Repeat peplum pattern as for front.

Sleeves
Make 2
Sleeve is worked similar to the sweater pattern, meaning the first part of the sleeve is worked from the elbow up and then the stitches are picked up along the bottom to create the shell stitch with scallop appearance at the bottom.

- Ch47
- Hdc each st across. 45st.
- Inc every other row 2 times. 51st.
- Inc every 4th row 3 times. 57st.
- Continue even for 11 more rows.
- Inc every row 2 times. 61st.
Finish off.

Pick up 48 stitches evenly spaced along bottom edge of sleeve and follow instructions for peplum.
Join pieces together.

Neck Shaping
Pick up stitches along neck edge and single crochet around. I did 5 rounds. To create the mitered corners, see below:

Stop 1 stitch short of corner and skip first stitch on the other side of corner and continue to single crochet. In essence you are decreasing by two stitches at each corner.

I hope these instructions are easy enough to follow, if not, drop me an email and I'll try to answer your questions.

Keep stitchin'